In Mumbai, the Maharashtra Legislative Assembly experienced significant tension on Wednesday as Speaker Rahul Narwekar launched a sharp critique of the state government regarding the absence of ministers and high-ranking administrative officers from the House floor. The Speaker made it clear that the legislative assembly would not operate according to the convenience of bureaucrats and that such negligence would not be tolerated. Rahul Narwekar issued a stern directive requiring Chief Secretary Rajesh Kumar to present himself in the Assembly within 30 minutes. He warned that any repeat of such conduct in the future would result in the adjournment of the proceedings for the entire day.
Chief Secretary Summoned to the Official Gallery
Following the Speaker's direct order, the state's most senior bureaucrat, Rajesh Kumar, arrived at the Assembly to take his place in the officers' gallery. This development unfolded during a discussion when opposition members raised persistent complaints regarding the failure of relevant ministers and senior department secretaries to appear in the chamber to address questions.
Opposition Calls for Adjournment
Leader of the Congress Legislative Party (CLP) Vijay Wadettiwar described the absence of the cabinet ministers and secretaries as an insult to the Legislative Assembly, the Speaker, and the people of Maharashtra. He demanded that the proceedings remain suspended until the ministers and officers were physically present in the House. Amidst the ongoing uproar, Rahul Narwekar expressed profound concern, noting that repeated complaints had been received regarding the absence of ministers required to respond to legislative debates. He instructed the Chief Secretary to attend the session and mandated that every minister must ensure their presence whenever a subject concerning their department is tabled for discussion.
Proceedings Adjourned for 10 Minutes
Due to the intensity of the opposition's protest, the House proceedings were suspended for approximately 10 minutes. Upon the resumption of the session, the Chief Secretary was present in the gallery. Representing the government, Parliamentary Affairs Minister Chandrakant Patil argued that several ministers and senior bureaucrats were occupied with other official commitments, including government meetings, which prevented them from attending the session on time.
Final Warning from the Speaker
Rahul Narwekar issued a final warning to the government, insisting that the presence of ministers and senior officials must be ensured throughout the duration of the Assembly's work. Emphasizing the gravity of the situation, he stated, "There are 110 secretaries drawing salaries from the government, yet not even four of them are present here. Nothing can be more important than the proceedings of the Legislative Assembly." He underscored that accountability to the House remains a primary responsibility for all government officials.
